Introducing Seipher Servaine to Generation III: War!

GENERATION III WAR: SEIPHER SERVAINE
Debut: August 13, 2012

Here is my new, snazzy original character, Seipher Servaine! Seipher is a classy, sexy vampire halfling. He has bad attitude and little restraint when it comes to his violent personality. However, Seipher is highly intelligent and specializes in reading those around him. His weakness is melon soda.

"What do you want? Can't you see I'm busy ignoring your ugly face? I've got better things to do than hang around with losers. Like smoking here in this corner alone. Haha."
~Seipher

Let us welcome Seipher to Generation III: War! :D 

"I think it is your inability to think that deters you from being able to fight me. I am 100% pure awesome."
「俺を超えられない原因は、お前の思考力の無さだと思うぜ。俺は100％、どこを取っても最強なんだよ。」
 

"I want to see you try to come at me, you swine."
「お前が俺に歯向かう所が見てみたいぜ、子豚ちゃん。」

"What do you want? Can't you see I'm busy ignoring your ugly face? I've got better things to do than hang around with losers. Like smoking here in this corner alone. Haha."
「何が欲しいんだ？お前の不細工な顔見ないようにすんのも一苦労だってのがわかんねぇのかよ？負け犬共と付き合ってる暇があったらもっとマシなことするぜ。ここら一角で一人で煙草吸う、とかな。はは。」

"It feels good. You should try it sometime."

"I hate losers who can't do a thing for themselves. Which is why I smoke. To keep from killing said losers."
「俺は自分から手も足も出せねぇ負け犬が大嫌いなんだよ。それが、俺が煙草を吸う理由だ。その負け犬ってやつを殺しちまわないようにな。」

Seras Project (run I) Debut!

Seras Victoria
Generation III: WAR
Debut July 2012

Seras Project (run I) Generation III: WAR

Seras Victoria
Run #1
Generation III: WAR

*DAY 1

Fabric Purchase. 5 yards of Mustard Yellow in plain cotton from Ben Franklin's. $15 total. I thank my friend who helped out!! <3



*DAY 2Pattern Hunting

~Simplicity 1941: $16.95
View B
Difficulty finding correct pattern. Multiple trips to Walmart and other stores for shirt patterns. @.@
~New Look A6843: $4.00
Design C

*DAY 3
Listing and Materials
Looking at alo materials and seeing what exactly is needed still:
~Boots /
~Yellow Fabric /
~Wig
~Stockings
~Fangs /
~Prop(?)
~Contacts(?)
~Gloves /

Can't decide on what prop. :( Harkonnen would be super awesome, but at the moment, I don't have enough time to actually focus on it. Shadow arm is semi-overdone, and I face several obstacles:
A). What materials/design?
B). Money?
C). Would it be up-to-par with my own standards?

I will have to see. :)
*A pistol would be cool. Seras originally was a cop, and you would think she would carry a momentum of her human life. That, and it would be a cool prop edition. Possibly affordable. I will have to look into it.
*Contact lens may not be practical at this time. I just got back from Japan, and funds are low. I have time in the future to perfect this dream cosplay, and redo the tweaks in it.



*DAY 4
Wig Order
Picked a wig! Bodyline had the perfect one that I fell in love with style wise. I'm familiar with Bodyline wigs, and the quality of their wigs is fantastic. :) Total for the wig was $29.50. I find Bodyline to be a bit more reliable than ebay and much cheaper in prices than other places. Their shipping is also reasonable and you can have it in a week.

http://www.bodyline.co.jp/bodyline/showAll.asp?type=left&subType1=new&subType2=4

*DAY 5
MOCK UP SHOTS
Wig came in! Also found a yellow button up to test with the wig to see how it may work. Found a belt too! Price: $.50 for the belt and $.25 for some stockings.

*DAY 6
Pattern Cutting and Skirt Pinning

I hate it. XD lol The small pieces, the big ones, the thin paper...it is all patience trying. lol But in the end, worth it. Its redoing it on the fabric that will probably be the worst part...perhaps. O.o

The skirt was cut first, and then the shirt patterns. All of the pices were cut for future use, so I didn't leave any extra no-usage papers in the envelopes. Save time later.

Since the skirt was the easiest piece, I went ahead and pinned the pattern to the fabric and cut the pieces out.

*DAY 7
Sewing the Skirt
Nothing too tough, but the fabric is definitely the wrong kind (which I will probably change to something like gabardine next time) so there are flaws in my project. :P To be honest, being gone for 11 months and out of commission for sewing has taken its toll. I feel so out of practice. :( But I feel this is a fresh start for me, and I am excited to finish!

This skirt presents no pockets, and I shortened the main pattern a bit to suit Seras's length as comfortably as I feel at the moment.

It was dumb, but I forgot to add the side slits during the pattern alterations. The fabric is a tad-bit see-through though since I don't plan to line, so it seems that a slip is in order. I think there is one in the garage somewhere...

*DAY 8
Finish Skirt
Skirt is finished, except for the final button! Zipper has been added up the back in white.




*DAY 9
The Big Day

Well, today is the most eventful of all. Went back to look at fake pistols/BB/Air guns and found some that would totally work! I might go for it if I can afford it. Not sure at the moment. :/

Got home and nearly immediately began on the shirt. I leave for AI in three days, so this has to get done. @.@ I am working on my gijinka for Umbreon too, so BUSY BUSY BUSY. Already half packed and half done, its just the "getting done" part that's hard. lol My grandma and grandpa both just had chemo on Thursday, and they are starting to get hit with the sick. Gotta balance and find a good center for all of us. My grandma wants to help out with the project. :) So she gets credit for this too!!!

Started pinning and cutting around 6:15pm, and boy does my dog love getting in on the action! LOL
When we went to Walmart again today, I got some buttons and interfacing for the collar and center strip of the shirt. Also, found some black on sale I can use to finish my gijinka! :)

My grandma was a big help with the pockets at around 2:30am. @.o Didn't completely finish is, but tomorrow hopefully for sure and I can start on Umbreon's ears and tail.

Figured what to do about the shadow arm! Gonna use the gloves I bought for Umbreon and combine it with the claws I tore off my Freddy Glove. :) Paint these babies black with red shading and looks like I will have a nice arm to use! Its practical for moving and especially moving in crowded areas. I will be working on an impractical arm that will be used for photoshoots. :P

So, the sewing machine has started to become tempermental, which is a definite go for waiting until tomorrow to finish Seras's blouse.



*DAY 10
Tempermental Sewing Machines

Tempermental sewing machines are the worst. T__T Both of my Brothers are deciding to not thread correctly, and no matter how much or how many timesI re-thread and re-bobbin, they continue to screw up the stitching. :( And I'm so close to being finished! @.@

My grandma decked out her old Singer, but the machine is a lot different from the models I am used to, and it apparently automatically threads the bobbin without removing the bobbin itself from inside the machine. O.o It has TONS of buttons and settings! Can't wait to start using it! <3
Got everything threaded and working! At last! Won't get finished as planned, but that's okay!



*DAY 11

Apparently the Singer works MUCH better than the other two. Gonna use it to finish up. Sleeves are sewn on at this point. I went with the longer sleeve pattern for the shirt instead of the one set for the blouse design on the package. The longer ones will be easier to roll up and will lay much better.
The shirt is a little big, so I am going to take it in a little more on the sides. Collar is stiff, and I am wondering about mobility since Seras's is a stand-up??? Debating on what button color to use, but not QUITE there yet. :) I hope to get it finished because I don't have much longer left before I leave for Quincy!

During my down times, I've been drawing up some new designs for gijinka and Nevermore. I really enjoy Nevermore, and I definitely want to do more (and more extreme things) with him. :)

But Seras must come first!!! LOL I just love to design so much, that during down time I do. :)
Seras this time is a bit underdone, but I am fascinated by how much I am getting done with what little I have to work with. My stuff is still stored from my pre-move to Japan, and I've got only little fabric, thread and machines and the new patterns. Since this is her first con, I am thinking of revamping with gabardine instead of plain cotton next time. :) It should lay better and look better as well. And sew better.....Erm....my machines absolutely LOATHE this cotton. :(  The color of the fabric works fabulously with the wig I got for her. :)

Looks like Generation III: WAR may have an extended life due to the year I missed. :/ The portfolio for WAR is so limited at the moment, that I really should extend the life for it.
Going to finish my Gijinka's tail and ears now, since that shouldn't take to much time. Then I can refocus all my weight on Seras again!

Still need to paint the claws for the glove, so I should probably see what paints I have available.

You can find more information about my projects, my events, etc on my new website!

mimiruriley.blogspot.com

　

GENERATION III WAR: Officially Launched!

I am officially launching the release of the third Generation of Cosplay Series! War will consist of more female characters (*gasp*) and have more of a bite than Salvation (I hope XD).

Officially on the list for Generation III: War
(subject to change)

*Yamamoto Anise (Barajou no Kiss) -COMPLETE

*Seras Victoria (Hellsing Manga)  -IN PROGRESS

*Young Walter (Hellsing Manga) -IN PROGRESS

*Claude Faustus (Kuroshitsuji II) -IN PROGRESS
*Usagi (Sailor Moon)
*Toshi (Bunraku)
*Wonder Woman
*Altair (Assassin's Creed)
*Lightning (Final Fantasy XIII-2)

*Nevermore [Summer Court] (Original) -COMPLETE

*Nevermore; the King's Knight (Original)
*Hakuyaoshi [Casual] (Original) -IN PROGRESS

Gijinkas are also going to be added to my Generational Cosplays!

Generation I Gijinka:
(subject to change)
*Umbreon -IN PROGRESS
*Jolteon
*Leafeon
*Vaporeon
*Suicune
*Mistrevus
*Hohoh
*Articuno
*Houndoom

Not Much

 HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

So, it may be a while before I can get some projects going again. I've got a bunch lined up, but because I am in Osaka a lot of the cosplaying is being put on the back burner. >_<  However, I AM working on a new Vampire Knight project with Kaname!  I want to get up to Hep Five and do some Purikura shots with Kaname and Zero, which I think would be super fun! ^_^  Maybe not exactly "in character", but still fun none the less. 

I do have a youkai project in the making though, and possibly even getting the chance to work on Haku!  The wig will be interesting, since he has blue dreadlocks through his black hair. ^_~  But since I am in Japan, I can't keep from wanting to buy the pieces I need to put him together! Most of it will just be easier if I get them here, such as the hakama, kimono and the rest of the pieces to go with it. 

I do apologize for taking so long to update, but besides updating my Japan Blog, there isn't much to say cosplay wise. :(  

I DO hope to have some cosplay progress soon!!!!

<3
Mimiru

Osaka: Orientation Day 1

I will be the first to admit, that studying abroad is VERY intimidating and overwhelming, especially if you have not done it before.  Not that this is a bad thing, but it can easily cause a lot of stress, necessary and unnecessary.  Most of this probably has a lot to do with culture shock, language barriers, little number of friends in the beginning, unsure where to get started or how to ask, etc.  Even if you do know the language, it can still be difficult, especially when put in a region with a completely different dialect.  Kansai-ben（関西べん） is much different than what we deem as "standard" Japanese, and it shows when speaking and listening to others speak.  Some examples:

*Thank you:  arigatou　ありがとう　-> ookini　おおきに
*I like:  suki desu　すきです　-> sukkyana　すっきゃな

It can be very different. Although, this also makes for an interesting, upcoming school year. :)






*****

Some tips for everyone if you decide to study abroad one day.

*find yourself a good support system IN and OUT of the country you are going to. A good support system will help you when you are feeling culture shock, depression, jet lag, or emotional.

*Budget and plan accordingly.  How much will it cost? What is the rate of exchange? How much for transportation and how often will you be traveling or using a transit system? Food? Rent? Extra? All of this should be taken into consideration. Rate of exchange fluctuates everyday, and will effect your budget. Find out if you also are able to get a part time job. This can not only help you budget your money, but will also enhance your study abroad experience and will look super on your resume. :)

*Bring extra shoes in case you need them. You won't always have time or money to just go out and buy new shoes. Bring an extra pair, especially if you plan on doing a lot of walking (such as in Japan).

*Make sure to have a list of emergency contacts in and out of the country. Be sure to have a list of doctors, hospitals, etc and find out what your insurance covers overseas. This is very helpful in case anything happens.

*Obey the rules/laws of both countries. Don't be stupid. You can't fix it.

*Get out and meet people! Socialize! Especially in Japan! This is a very important part of your study abroad experience. Meet people, make friends or even SOs. No use spending all that money to recluse yourself. ^_~  This is also a very good way to learn the language and culture, as well as help ease culture shock.

Those are just some basic tips. I will leave more from time to time. ^^  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at:

kirei-hanako@excite.co.jp   OR  mimiruriley@excite.co.jp


*****

We had orientation today beginning at 1, with a lunch at noon.  I am not much of an udon fan, since I prefer my noodles to be a bit crunchy and udon is as far from crunchy as you can get, but today's niku udon was delicious. :)  It was 280 yen for a large bowl. Can't beat that with a wooden stick. ^_~  

Orientation was kinda half boring and half interesting.  I mean, we were just reviewing a large packet of papers that we already read through a dozen times, along with some new info on cell phones and alien registration and national health insurance.  It is about as basic and important that you can get, but at the same time...it felt like it would never end. lol

I am thinking about getting a basic plan with an "au phone". It will be more affordable than others, and I can get unlimited calling to 3 other people. :)  But at the moment, I need to make sure I can afford my year here.  I am behind about $7000 and I have to come up with it somehow before I leave back to the States.  This includes rent and remaining tuition amount.  

*****

I am having some difficulties with coming up with the proper amounts. I can't ask my family for any more money since they don't have any, and I can't get student loans since I don't have a job (at the moment) and I don't have anyone who can co-sign.  I am really worried about finances.  I am not sure I will be able to come up with $7000 from working part time.  My work visa will not go through for another three months, so I have to somehow come up with the money for rent from that time outward until I can save up enough worth in rent.  Plus electric and linens utilities.  *sigh*  I wish I could get more scholarships.  I have been applying, but it is really competitive, and it is difficult for people who need the scholarships to actually GET them.  I'm a bit worried I may be screwed before I have to come back to the US.

*****

Well, all of that aside... I have to study a little while for the Japanese language placement exams tomorrow.  I have a feeling this is going to be another long day. @.@  It starts at 9am.  I really hope I don't have to start from square A. >.<  I will be greatly upset if I have to pay AGAIN for something I already know and already taken.  It is really frustrating.  I am worried about the exam, because I do NOT test well, and I get really nervous when it comes to taking a written or oral exam, ESPECIALLY an oral exam.  I am scared that my inability to test properly will flunk me into a language class I am already familiar with, proficient in and comfortable with.  I don't want to pay $40,000 to learn what I already know. >.<  I want to learn what I DON'T already know. :)  This is how I improve my knowledge and cultural experience. ^.^



******

Originally, we were planning to go to Umeda today, but we didn't get out of orientation until after 5pm. :(   So instead we picked up some needed things at the hyakuin　百いん (hyaku ya 百夜, hyaku en ya　百円夜, etc).

I'm a little hungry, but I am so sleepy and jet lagged. @.@  I am probably going to wait to eat until tomorrow after the exam. I think tomorrow, if the exams are not an ALL day thing, we will head out to Umeda to either the SukiYa or for some shabu shabu and treat ourselves before we no longer can. lol




Today was a pretty good day, I'll say. Long though, since I woke up around 6am. It is hard to believe it is only 8:30pm.  It feels SO much later. Once more, I blame the jet lag. :D

oyasumi nasai minna san!
おやすみなさいみんあさん！

<3 From:

Mimiru

Arrived: Osaka

Finally, after a looong process of applications, moving, and traveling, I have at last arrived safely in Osaka.

The plane ride was very long.  Overall it was a 17 hour trip. By the time we arrived at Kansai International, all 11 of us were ready to drop.  We went from St. Louis to Dallas, Dallas to Tokyo, and then Tokyo/Narita International Airport to Kansai International Airport. The first two flights were on American Airlines, and then we switched to Japan Airlines for the domestic flight.

We took a taxi from Kansai International to the dorms, however the total was nearly 200000 yen. I wanted to cry. That is a lot of money for the first day here. When we arrived at the dorms, they quickly got us settled into our rooms (the dorm manager was kind enough to help carry luggage).  Unfortunately, immediately after everyone got settled in, we had to have a meeting for paperwork.  I will tell you, no matter how much Japanese we knew (some of us are very fluent), being exhausted makes it very difficult to process what anyone is saying. 

There are plenty of others here in the dorm that are from the US, some from France and others from other places. There are a lot of Japanese students here as well. ^^

Something that I didn't expect, was the culture shock when it came to the dorms. The rules are quite strict.

*Not allowed outside after 11pm. The dorms become locked. If we are locked out more than once, then our parents are notified and we have to write a log in a book.

*No guys allowed in the building.

*No eating in the dorm rooms, but for a fee, you can smoke. (I don't quite understand this part...)

And so many others, but those are the ones that are most important.  I do understand the difference in culture, thus the "parents being notified" part, but since we are from overseas, this may be a little difficult as well as pricy.

The room is very cozy, and we have our own air conditioning (thank goodness!!!). Japanese air conditioning in main areas really sucks. It is really hot and humid, and the air in the building may only be one or two degrees cooler than outside. @.@  When walking into our own rooms, it is like walking into an ice box. lol


I am still trying to figure out and budget my finances.  I have a few months' rent set aside, but I don't have too much more to spare.  I am kind of worried about the later months.  I do look forward to obtaining a few jobs, doing the Volks service, and tutoring. 

I am still trying to figure out what clubs I want to join. I am leaning towards Kendo and Archery club. ^.^ 


Since I came back, I am very happy.  It is very comforting to see places I have  been before, eat foods I love, get the exercise that is harder to get back in the States, and even enjoy a culture that I really love and appreciate. This trip, though stressful, is entirely rewarding, and I would never have done it differently, nor will I ever regret it.

I have orientation in a few. Then off to the Hyakuin (what the kids at Kansai U call the 100 yen stores) and then heading out to Umeda and Nihonbashi.  I want to check out Volks, at least briefly before the weekend. Maybe shabu shabu tomorrow or something as an arrival treat.  Plus, I also want to eat at the Sukiya.  I miss eating at the Sukiya.  The gyudon is amazing here.  I had gyudon at the Japanese festival, but I really wanted to gag.  It was not very appetizing. >.<  I love real Japanese food. 




~Mimiru